A non-denominational, Pentecostal fellowship with a mission of restoration and unity in Christianity.
Gospel Assembly Churches, founded in 1914 by William Sowders, stand as a non-denominational Christian movement deeply rooted in the Pentecostal tradition. Originating from Sowders’ evangelistic efforts in Paducah, Kentucky, the movement quickly spread, emphasizing a return to the early Christian church’s practices and beliefs. Today, Gospel Assembly Churches are present in 17 nations, including regions of western Europe, southern Africa, Mexico, and the Caribbean, with a significant presence in the United States and Canada. The fellowship boasts tens of thousands of congregations worldwide, with membership ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 individuals.
Origins and Expansion
The inception of Gospel Assembly Churches can be traced back to the early American Pentecostal movement, with Sowders, a former Louisville policeman, pioneering the movement in Louisville, Kentucky, where he established a congregation and ministered until his death in 1952. The movement’s leadership then passed to T. M. Jolly, who led the church in St. Louis until 1991.
Doctrine and Beliefs
Gospel Assembly Churches hold the Bible as the pure Word of God and believe in a non-trinitarian view of Christianity. They refer to their community as ‘the Body of Christ’ and view other Christian denominations as ‘Babylon,’ symbolizing a departure from what they consider true Christianity. Despite having no formal doctrinal statement, the movement emphasizes spiritual growth, divine healing, and the restoration of early church practices, including spiritual communion and water baptism.
Worship and Practices
The worship services of Gospel Assembly Churches are characterized by their Pentecostal nature, incorporating elements such as speaking in tongues, divine healing, and an open-order service that encourages congregation participation. These services often feature orchestral-based music, with hymns and choruses written by church members, reflecting the fellowship’s commitment to a lifestyle of humility, sanctification, and holiness.
Constituency and Facilities
The movement’s significant presence is notable in the lower Midwest of the United States, but it has reached an international audience with congregations in several countries. A schism led by Lloyd Goodwin, almost identical in faith and practice, indicates the dynamic nature of the movement’s growth and its variations in polity and leadership. Facilities like the Gospel of the Kingdom campground in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, and a large convention center in Louisville are central to the movement’s gatherings and ministerial activities.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite its widespread appeal and commitment to Christian principles, Gospel Assembly Churches have faced accusations of exhibiting cult-like characteristics, including spiritual abuse and heavy shepherding. The movement has been critiqued for controlling aspects of members’ lives, ranging from personal finances to relationships. Additionally, a significant controversy arose with the conviction of Thomas Jolly, Sowders’ successor, for child sexual abuse in 1993, highlighting serious challenges within the church’s leadership.
Gospel Assembly Churches represent a unique facet of the broader Pentecostal movement, emphasizing a return to early Christian practices, non-trinitarian beliefs, and a strong community of worship. While facing internal and external challenges, the movement continues to impact its members and communities worldwide, striving towards a vision of restoration and unity within Christianity.
image via gahouston.org
